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Sikh charity leader recognised for selfless service

Simran Sohal & Amrit Singh Cheema
BBC News
Nishkam Media A group of MP's standing next to Bhai Sahib Ji who is wearing a white turban, black coat and white cloth around his neck. He holds and award being handed to him by Seema Malhotra MP who wears a red jacket and dotted top. Nishkam Media
Bhai Sahib says he is "humbled and happy to be honoured" for his life long selfless service

The leader of a Birmingham-based Sikh charity has been recognised for his dedication to selfless service at an event in Parliament.

Bhai Sahib, Professor Mohinder Singh, spiritual leader of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha and chairman of the Nishkam Group of Charitable Organisations, has helped a variety of sectors grow across the UK and around the world.

Bhai Sahib Ji was presented with the award "In recognition of his lifelong selfless service to the community" by British Sikh parliamentarians on Monday night.

Rooted in Sikh principles, the charity has focused on interfaith dialogue and transformative community work in education, healthcare, heritage, and global humanitarian aid.

Nishkam Media A group of Sikhs standing on steps in Parliament. Behind them is a large stain glass window.Nishkam Media
Preet Gill MP thanked Bhai Sahib Ji for their visionary leadership especially across education and health sectors

Labour MP Jas Athwal called Bhai Sahib Ji a "true embodiment of humility, leadership and service".

Speaking in Parliament, Bhai Sahib Ji said: "I am greatly overwhelmed and embarrassed to take any credit for what I have managed to do in my life.

"As Sikhs, we are lovingly advised to adopt the following strategy for spiritual and worldly success.

"Pray, work, share. To serve selflessly, sing, listen to and absorb divine praise.

"In a way we become what we serve. To serve the creator through serving creation is the path to living in God's image when done in tandem with prayer and devotion."

Three people dressed in white clothing playing traditional Indian instruments. To the left a woman in a brown headscarf and Bhai Sahib Ji who wears a white turban are sat.
Gurbani kirtan - Sikh sacred music - was performed as part of the event

Volunteers spoke of Bhai Sahib Ji's service, namely the creation of the peace charter for forgiveness and reconciliation in 2019, which promotes clemency as a way to pave the way for global peace.

A trustee of the charity said: "We are celebrating 30 years, but it is not 30 years; it is a lifelong dedication."

And added that "the whole foundation is built around humility".

The Sikh charity has its headquarters in Birmingham and operates in cities across the UK, in India and in Kenya.

In Handsworth, West Midlands, the charity helped regenerate 13 acres of inner-city land.

The launch of Zero Hunger and Nishkam SWAT (Sikh Welfare and Awareness Team) has fed thousands and is continuing to do so.

Bhai Sahib Ji is the first Sikh to be awarded a Papal Knighthood of St Gregory the Great, which is usually reserved for Catholics, honouring his interfaith work.

A volunteer described him as a reminder to "uplift and to unite", while he inspires others to "live truer and serve" through honouring the legacy of the Sikh Gurus.

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